Protestors march and hold their fists aloft as they march during ongoing demonstrations in reaction to the shooting of Michael Brown in Ferguson, Missouri August 16, 2014. (Reuters/Lucas Jackson) / Reuters

One person is in critical condition and seven people have been arrested in the latest Ferguson protest, local police said in a news conference. They also confirmed the use of tear gas.

One person was shot and critically wounded and seven were arrested, Missouri State Highway Patrol Captain Ron Johnson said. Police were unable to identify the victim, who he said was not shot by police, and that the alleged shooter was still at large.

Earlier, police were announcing on a bullhorn that the protesters have to leave the area immediately. "This is the police. You're in violation of the state-imposed curfew. You must disperse immediately," the police were saying.

There are approximately 70 officer moving forward now putting on gas masks #Ferguson

Media reporters have been asked to stand back for their safety, as there are at least four police tactical vehicles arriving at the scene.

Despite heavy rainfall and lightning, hundreds lined up the streets ahead of the curfew introduced earlier by Governor Jay Nixon who has declared a state of emergency, as authorities try to restore order after a week of mainly peaceful protests marred by occasional rioting and looting.

Hours before the curfew was set to begin, authorities have deployed riot police in the streets apparently blocking the main access routes to the protest area.

The New Black Party representatives were also at the scene, trying to ease the tensions. People who gathered in the streets in defy of curfew were saying that authorities are not addressing the real issue instead imposing more restrictions of citizens’ rights.

“The eyes of the world are watching. This is the test of whether a community, this community, any community, can break the cycle of fear, distrust and violence, and replace them with peace, strength and, ultimately, justice,” Governor Jay Nixon said earlier in his speech at a church near Ferguson.

Captain Ronald Johnson of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, who also spoke at the press conference, following Nixon, promised not to use tear gas or armored vehicles that was deployed during Friday night clashes.

The unrest erupted after police officer Darren Wilson shot and killed Michael Brown in brought daylight last Saturday. Authorities say that the US Department of Justice is increasing its efforts in the investigation, while around 40 FBI agents are questioning witnesses.